Eat · Brunch · 2026
The best brunch on the Upper East Side.
Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 10 places.
As a local, I’ve practically spent my life’s savings in search of the best brunch on the Upper East Side. From catching up with friends over mimosas to first date jitters over stacks of pancakes, there’s something sacred about the weekend meal.
Although the posh neighborhood has a reputation for indulgence, you can rest assured knowing there are some affordable options as well.
- B. CafeRestaurant · Upper East SideAptly named, airy and light Belgian waffles reign supreme at this subterranean Upper East Side brunch haunt.
- Bluestone LaneCafe · Upper East Sidebut this delicious Aussie brunch in the Upper East Side is worth the wait.
- Cafe d’AlsaceRestaurant · Upper East SideIn my opinion, this charming French bistro is an ideal spot for a cozy brunch date on the Upper East Side.
- Chez NickRestaurant · Upper East SideThe chefs were keen to combine Michelin-starred techniques with an approachable atmosphere and they delivered.
- EJ’s LuncheonetteRestaurant · Upper East SideServing straightforward home-style breakfast, EJ’s Luncheonette is the quintessential no-frills neighborhood diner.
- Flex MusselsRestaurant · Upper East SideHowever, it’d be a shame to stray too far from seafood at this popular Upper East Side brunch destination.
- Hutch & WaldoRestaurant · Upper East SideWhen it comes to Instagrammable brunch on the Upper East Side, Hutch + Waldo takes the cake.
- MayaRestaurant · Upper East Side
- The Bar RoomRestaurant · Upper East SideDark paneled walls, handsome leather booths and striking murals play second fiddle to the great food on offer.
- The PenroseBar · Upper East SideTo the untrained eye, it’s hard to believe that a neighborhood bar could double as one of the best brunch restaurants on the Upper East Side, but here we are.
B. Cafe
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 240 E 75th St, New York, NY
Aptly named, airy and light Belgian waffles reign supreme at this subterranean Upper East Side brunch haunt.
Bluestone Lane
Cafe · Upper East Side · 1085 5th Ave, New York, NY
but this delicious Aussie brunch in the Upper East Side is worth the wait.
Cafe d’Alsace
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 1703 2nd Ave, New York, NY
In my opinion, this charming French bistro is an ideal spot for a cozy brunch date on the Upper East Side.
Chez Nick
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 1737 York Ave, New York
The chefs were keen to combine Michelin-starred techniques with an approachable atmosphere and they delivered.
EJ’s Luncheonette
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 1271 3rd Ave, New York, NY
Serving straightforward home-style breakfast, EJ’s Luncheonette is the quintessential no-frills neighborhood diner.
Flex Mussels
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 1431 3rd Ave, New York, NY
However, it’d be a shame to stray too far from seafood at this popular Upper East Side brunch destination.
Hutch & Waldo
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 247 E 81st St, New York, NY
When it comes to Instagrammable brunch on the Upper East Side, Hutch + Waldo takes the cake.
Maya
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 1191 1st Ave, New York, NY
Sandoval’s commitment to pushing food boundaries ensures a constant infusion of new flavors, making Maya one of the premier brunch restaurant on the Upper East Side, but the great cocktails don’t hurt either.
The Bar Room
Restaurant · Upper East Side · 117 E 60th St, New York, NY
Dark paneled walls, handsome leather booths and striking murals play second fiddle to the great food on offer.
The Penrose
Bar · Upper East Side · 1590 2nd Ave, New York, NY
To the untrained eye, it’s hard to believe that a neighborhood bar could double as one of the best brunch restaurants on the Upper East Side, but here we are.
Best brunch on the Upper East Side, 2026
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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 12 Best Upper East Side Brunch Spots (Locals Love).